Zantedeschia albomaculata
Zantedeschia albomaculata is the spotted calla lily valued for decorative leaves and creamy to white spathes. It stands out for foliage dotted with translucent white spots. Plants perform best in warm summer regions and in containers with excellent drainage. It is grown as a seasonal bulb across much of North America. Bloom usually runs from late spring into summer. Some forms show a dark purple flush or throat at the base of the spathe.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species; tuberous calla lily
- Height × spread: 18 to 24 in (45 to 60 cm) × 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm)
- Bloom window: Late spring to summer
- Color & flower form: White to cream spathe often with a dark basal flush; spotted foliage
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: Zones 8 to 10; grown as annual or lifted in colder zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Unknown, unknown, southern Africa
- Cut‑flower notes: Medium stems; typical vase life 7 to 10 days
- Pet safety: Avoid
How it differs
- Leaves are attractively and heavily spotted.
- Spathe color ranges from white to cream with possible dark throat.
- Deciduous and summer growing; not suited to standing water.
Strengths
- Foliage gives interest before and after bloom.
- Performs well in containers and raised beds.
- Useful as a cut in mixed bouquets.
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun to part shade; provide afternoon shade where summers are hot.
- Soil: fertile and well drained; avoid heavy clay or standing water.
- Watering: keep evenly moist while growing; reduce water as leaves yellow.
- Feeding: light monthly fertilizer during active growth.
- Grooming: remove spent spathes and any badly spotted foliage.
- Overwintering: lift and store dry at 50 to 55°F (10 to 13°C) outside zone 8 to 10.
Watch‑outs
- Soft rot can occur in cold and waterlogged media.
- Leaf spot and botrytis may appear in prolonged wet weather.
- Frost sensitive; lift tubers in cold regions.
Best uses (tags)
containers, cutting, borders, mass planting
Provenance note
Widespread in southern Africa with variable local forms.
References
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online: Zantedeschia albomaculata
- SANBI – Red List: Zantedeschia albomaculata
- NC State Extension – Zantedeschia profile
- ASPCA – Calla lily toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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